Proverbs 1:1-7

New International Version

Purpose and Theme

1 The proverbs^(A) of Solomon^(B) son of David, king of Israel:^(C)

²for gaining wisdom and instruction;
    for understanding words of insight;
³for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
    doing what is right and just and fair;
⁴for giving prudence to those who are simple,^[a]^(D)
    knowledge and discretion^(E) to the young—
⁵let the wise listen and add to their learning,^(F)
    and let the discerning get guidance—
⁶for understanding proverbs and parables,^(G)
    the sayings and riddles^(H) of the wise.^[b]^(I)

⁷The fear of the Lord^(J) is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools^[c] despise wisdom^(K) and instruction.^(L)

Read full chapter

Footnotes

Proverbs 1:4 The Hebrew word rendered simple in Proverbs denotes a person who is gullible, without moral direction and inclined to evil.
Proverbs 1:6 Or understanding a proverb, namely, a parable, / and the sayings of the wise, their riddles
Proverbs 1:7 The Hebrew words rendered fool in Proverbs, and often elsewhere in the Old Testament, denote a person who is morally deficient.

Proverbs 9:9-12

New International Version

⁹Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still;
teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.^(A)

¹⁰The fear of the Lord^(B) is the beginning of wisdom,
    and knowledge of the Holy One^(C) is understanding.^(D)
¹¹For through wisdom^[a] your days will be many,
    and years will be added to your life.^(E)
¹²If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you;
    if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer.